Description

An aircraft engineer is the person responsible for ensuring that airplanes within a fleet of air services providers are properly maintained, repaired, and safe for flight. The engineer performs a variety of daily inspections on different aircraft, logs the results of any anomalies or tests performed on the airplanes, and performs or oversees any necessary repairs and re-inspections.Many of the inspections that aircraft engineers perform on planes are of the routine variety. These inspections typically involve examination and or or testing of flight and aircraft mechanical systems while the plane is on the ground. The engineer will typically log the result of all tests, and these test logs are filed and kept for inspection by any authorities who request them in the future. In addition to these routine tests, many aircraft have specialized in-depth inspections that must be performed periodically. The engineer also carries out more in-depth assessments of the craft's flight worthiness and carries out any corrective actions that might need to be taken.Aircraft engineers typically are persons who either have university degrees in aerospace engineering or some related discipline. They at least need to have extensive postsecondary school training in aircraft repair and maintenance. Most jurisdictions require accreditation and demonstration of continuing education by aircraft engineers as a stipulation for holding this job. Aircraft engineers typically work in an aviation mechanical shop environment during regular business hours of the week.

Roles & Responsibilities

As an Aircraft Engineer with 0-3 years of experience in Australia, your main responsibilities include:

  • Perform routine inspections, maintenance, and repairs on aircraft to ensure compliance with safety regulations and operational efficiency.
  • Assist senior engineers in troubleshooting and diagnosing mechanical and electrical issues in aircraft systems.
  • Conduct regular testing and calibration of aircraft instruments and equipment to ensure accuracy and reliability.
  • Maintain detailed records of maintenance activities, including documentation of inspections, repairs, and component replacements, to comply with regulatory requirements and ensure traceability.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For an Aircraft Engineer, the following qualifications are required:

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field to demonstrate a strong foundation in aircraft design, structures, and systems.
  • Extensive knowledge of aviation regulations and standards such as FAA or EASA to ensure compliance and safety in aircraft operations and maintenance.
  • Proficiency in computer-aided design software for creating and modifying aircraft designs, as well as analyzing aerodynamic performance.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills to identify and troubleshoot aircraft-related issues, including mechanical failures, electrical systems, or avionics components.

Essential Skills For Aircraft Engineer

1

Mathematical Optimization

2

Mathematical Logic

3

Aerodynamics

4

Laws of Physics

Career Prospects

The role of an Aircraft Engineer is crucial to ensuring the safety and functionality of aircraft. For individuals with 0-3 years of work experience in Australia, there are several alternative roles to consider within the aviation industry. Here are four options to explore:

  • Avionics Technician: A role focused on maintaining and repairing electronic systems within aircraft, including communication, navigation, and flight control systems.
  • Quality Assurance Inspector: A position responsible for ensuring that aircraft maintenance and repair work meets industry standards and regulatory requirements.
  • Aircraft Maintenance Planner: A role involving the scheduling and coordination of aircraft maintenance activities to optimize operational efficiency and minimize downtime.
  • Technical Publications Specialist: A position focused on creating and updating technical manuals and documentation for aircraft maintenance and repair procedures.

How to Learn

The job role of Aircraft Engineer in Australia is projected to experience moderate and steady growth in the market. According to recent data, there has been a consistent demand for these professionals, and this trend is expected to continue over the next 10 years. With the increasing number of aircraft in service and advancements in technology, there will be ample employment opportunities in this field. Job prospects for Aircraft Engineers are likely to remain positive, with the potential for career development and stability. Overall, this profession offers promising prospects in the Australian aviation industry.